KR20230029967A - Articles for use in aerosol delivery systems - Google Patents

Abstract

A non-flammable aerosol providing device includes a rod-shaped receptacle defining a consumable receiving space; and a vaporizer for generating an aerosol from the aerosol precursor material, wherein the vaporizer, when in use, allows the aerosol to pass from the vaporizer and into the rod-shaped consumables accommodation space accommodated in the rod-shaped consumables accommodation space. communicate with

Description

Articles for use in aerosol delivery systems

The present invention relates to articles for use in non-flammable aerosol-dispensing systems, and non-flammable aerosol-dispensing systems comprising articles.

Certain tobacco industry products produce an aerosol that is inhaled by the user during use. For example, a cigarette heating device heats an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a cigarette, to form an aerosol by heating but not burning the substrate.

In some implementations described herein, in a first aspect, a non-combustible aerosol-providing device is provided, the non-combustible aerosol-providing device comprising:

A receptacle defining a rod-shaped consumables accommodating space, and

and a vaporizer for generating an aerosol from an aerosol precursor material, wherein the vaporizer, in use, allows the aerosol to pass from the vaporizer and into a rod-shaped consumables accommodation space accommodated in the rod-shaped consumables accommodation space. communicate with

In some embodiments described herein, in a second aspect, a non-combustible aerosol-providing system is provided, the non-combustible aerosol-providing system comprising:

A non-flammable aerosol providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, and

A rod-shaped consumable for insertion of the non-flammable aerosol-providing device into the heater.

In some embodiments described herein, in a third aspect, a consumable for use with a non-flammable aerosol providing device is provided, the consumable comprising:

a section of aerosol generating material;

a section of filter material forming the mouth end of the consumable; and

a plug extending across the distal end of the aerosol generating material, opposite the mouth end;

The plug includes a pilot hole extending at least partially through the plug.

In some embodiments described herein, in a second aspect, a method of manufacturing a consumable for use in a non-flammable aerosol providing device is provided, the method comprising:

forming a section of aerosol generating material;

forming a section of filter material;

forming a plug including a pilot hole;

combining a section of aerosol generating material with a section of filter material, the section of filter material forming a mouth end of the consumable; and

attaching a plug to the distal end of the section of aerosol generating material, opposite the mouth end.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
1 schematically illustrates a device according to embodiments of the present invention.
2 schematically illustrates a system according to embodiments of the present invention.
3 schematically illustrates a device according to embodiments of the present invention.
4 schematically illustrates a consumable according to embodiments of the present invention.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol-delivery system comprises a component aerosol-generating material of the aerosol-delivery system (or components thereof) to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user. It is a system that either combusts or does not burn.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system includes an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is essential. It is noted that this is not a condition.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol providing system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. One example of such a system includes a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol-provisioning system includes a hybrid system for generating an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials may be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel, for example, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. Solid aerosol generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

Typically, a non-combustible aerosol-providing system may include a non-combustible aerosol-providing device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol-providing device.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables comprising an aerosol generating material and configured for use with non-flammable aerosol providing devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

In some implementations, a non-combustible aerosol-providing system, such as a non-combustible aerosol-providing device thereof, can include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source includes a carbon substrate capable of supplying energy to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material proximate to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system can include an area for containing a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, a consumable for use with a non-flammable aerosol-providing device includes an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material delivery component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece. and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes an active substance.

An active substance as used herein may be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance a physiological response. The active ingredient may be selected from, for example, nutraceuticals, nootropics and psychoactives. The active substance may be naturally occurring or obtained synthetically. The active substance may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, thein, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or constituents, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active substance may include one or more constituents, derivatives or extracts of tobacco, cannabis or other botanicals.

In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active agent includes caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

As noted herein, the active substance may include or be derived from one or more botanical herbal medicines or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "phytochemical" includes extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, husk , any material derived from plants including, but not limited to, shells and the like. Alternatively, the material may contain active compounds naturally present in herbal medicines obtained synthetically. This material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, comminuted particles, granules, pellets, shreds, strips, sheets, and the like. Examples of herbal medicines are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cannabis, fennel, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax ), ginger, ginkgo biloba, hazel, hibiscus, laurel, licorice (liquorice), matcha, mate, orange skin ), papaya, rose, sage, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, aniseed (anise), basil, bay leaves bay leaves, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elder elderflower, vanilla, wintergreen, beefsteak plant, curcuma, turmeric, sandalwood, cilantro, bergamot, orange blossom blossom, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, lemon balm ), lemon basil, chive, carvi, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theacrine ( theacrine, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll yll), baobab, or any combination thereof. Mints can be selected from the following mint varieties. Mentha arvensis, Mentha c.v., Mentha niliaca, Mentha piperita, Mentha piperita citrata c.v., Mentha piperita c.v. (Mentha piperita c.v.), Mentha spicata crispa, Mentha cordifolia, Mentha longifolia, Mentha suaveolens variegata, Mentha pulegium ( Mentha pulegium), Mentha spicata c.v. and Mentha suaveolens.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more herbal medicines or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the herbal medicine is tobacco.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more herbal medicines or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof, wherein the herbal medicine is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa and hemp.

In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more herbal medicines or constituents, derivatives or extracts thereof, wherein the herbal medicine is selected from rooibos and fennel.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes a flavoring agent.

As used herein, the terms “flavour” and “flavourant” refer to a taste, aroma, desired in a product for adult consumers, when permitted by local regulations. ) or materials that can be used to create other somatosensory sensations. These include naturally occurring flavor ingredients, herbal medicines, extracts of herbal medicines, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, cannabis, licorice (licorice sugar), hydrangea, emulsions). eugenol, Japanese white bark magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise ( Anise), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, Clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb, grape, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Drambuie, bourbon , scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, Nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar, betel, shisha, pine, honey essence, rose oil ), vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, piment, ginger, coriander, coffee, hemp, mint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, Flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay, mate, orange peel, rose, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika , rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, perilla, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, cassis, valerian, pimento, mace, damian, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chive, carbi, verbena , tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitterness receptor site blockers, sensorial receptor site activators sugars or stimulators, sugars and/or sugar substitutes (e.g. sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharine, cyclamates, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose (sorbitol or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, herbal medicines or breath freshening agents. These may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, such as liquids such as oils, solids such as powders or gases.

In some embodiments, the flavor includes menthol, spearmint and/or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus and/or redberry. In some embodiments, the flavor includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavor comprises flavor components extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavor includes flavor components extracted from cannabis.

In some embodiments, flavor, in addition to or instead of scent or taste nerves, is a sensation intended to achieve a somatosensory sensation that is typically chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve). It may contain water (sensate), which may contain agents that provide pyrogenic, cooling, tingling, or numbing effects. A suitable exothermic agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable cooling agent may be, but is not limited to, eucolyptol, WS-3.

An aerosol generating material is a material capable of generating an aerosol, eg when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain, for example, active substances and/or flavoring agents. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may include an “amorphous solid,” which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (ie, non-fibrous). In some embodiments, an amorphous solid can be a dried gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material can comprise, for example, from about 50%, 60% or 70% amorphous solids to about 90%, 95% or 100% amorphous solids by weight.

The aerosol generating material may include one or more active substances and/or flavors, one or more aerosol former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

The aerosol former material may include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol former material is glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillaate, One of ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate may contain more than

The one or more other functional materials may include one or more of pH adjusters, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

The material may be on or in the support to form the substrate. The support can be or include, for example, paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, the support includes a susceptor. In some implementations, the susceptor is embedded in a material. In some alternative implementations, the susceptor is on one or both sides of the material.

A consumable is an article that contains or consists of an aerosol generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. The consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, aerosol generating material delivery component, aerosol generating area, housing, wrapper, mouthpiece, filter, and/or aerosol modifier. The consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat such that the aerosol-generating material generates an aerosol upon use. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material capable of being heated by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

An aerosol modifier is a material, typically located downstream of the aerosol-generating region, that is configured to modify the aerosol produced by, for example, changing the taste, flavor, acidity or other characteristics of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier may be provided to an aerosol modifier releasing component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier.

Aerosol modifiers can be, for example, additives or adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers may include, for example, one or more of flavoring agents, coloring agents, water and carbon adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers can be, for example, solids, liquids or gels. Aerosol modifiers may be in powder, thread or granular form. The aerosol modifier may be free of filtering material.

An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to apply thermal energy to the aerosol generating material to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to apply one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy to the aerosol generating material.

In the drawings described herein, like reference numbers are used to illustrate equivalent features, articles or components.

A non-flammable aerosol providing device 1 (referred to herein simply as 'device 1') according to embodiments of the present invention is schematically shown in FIG. 1 . The device 1 includes a receptacle 2 defining a rod-shaped consumables accommodating space 3 (referred to simply as 'accommodating space 3' in this specification); and an aerosol generator 4 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol former material 5, such as e-Liquid. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generator is a vaporizer (4).

The vaporizer 4 is in fluid communication with the containment space 3 so that, in use, aerosol is drawn from the vaporizer 4 and rod-shaped consumables (referred to herein simply as 'consumables') contained in the containment space 3. ) can pass through.

The device further comprises a power source 7 and a control unit 8 respectively configured to supply power to and control the vaporizer 4 . The power source 7 can be a battery 7, for example a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (eg, lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (eg, nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries.

The various components of the device are retained within the housing 6 , including the vaporizer 4 , receptacle 2 , battery 7 and control unit 8 .

Device 1 has an approximate size and shape that allows a user to hold device 1 with one hand. In use, as shown in FIG. 2 , consumables 11 are inserted into the accommodating space 3 . The mouth end 12 of the consumable protrudes from the device. To inhale the aerosol produced by the vaporizer, the user places the mouth end 12 of the consumable 11 between their lips and inhales the consumable 11 in the manner of a conventional cigarette.

The device further comprises an inlet 9 and an outlet 10 . An air passage is defined between the inlet through the vaporizer (4) and the outlet (9, 10). The outlet opens into the accommodating space 3 to allow the aerosol generated by the vaporizer 4 to pass through the consumables 11 accommodated in the accommodating space 3 .

When the user sucks the consumable 11, a pressure difference is created between the air inlet 9 and the air outlet 10. The pressure differential induces a flow of air (indicated by arrow 15) from the inlet 9 through the vaporizer 4 and out the outlet 10. The aerosol from the vaporizer 4 is picked up and entrained in the flow of air 15 - passing through the outlet 10 - through the consumable 11 for inhalation by the user.

In some implementations, device 1 includes a first activation button 13 for allowing a user to turn on or turn off device 1; and a second activation button 14 for activating the vaporizer 4. To use the device 1, the user sucks the mouth end 12 of the consumable 11 while simultaneously pressing the second activating button 14 to cause the vaporizer 4 to generate an aerosol.

In some implementations, inlet 10 may include a pressure sensor (not shown) that acts as a 'puff sensor'. The puff sensor is configured to detect a pressure drop at the air inlet 9 , which indicates that the user is inhaling through the consumable 11 located in the accommodation space 3 . The device 1 is thereby configured to activate the vaporizer 4 in response to a pressure drop detected at the air inlet 9 .

Control unit 8 is configured to direct electrical energy from battery 7 to activate vaporizer 4 in response to an input signal.

In one implementation, an input signal is generated when the second activation button 14 is pressed by the user. In another embodiment, an input signal is generated when a pressure drop is detected at the inlet 9 by the pressure sensor.

In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 1 , the vaporizer includes an aerosol former tank 16 , a wick 17 and an electrical resistance heater 18 . In use, the aerosol former material 5 is drawn into the wick 17 by capillary action, whereby it is vaporized by the heat transferred by the electrical resistance heater 18 .

The electrical resistance heater 18 includes a conductive wire that generates heat due to electrical resistance to a current induced in the wire. The wire is spirally wound around the wick 17 and electrically connected to the control unit 8 .

In response to the input signal, the potential of the battery 7 induces a current in the wires of the electrical resistance heater 18 and vaporizes the aerosol former material supported by the wick 17 . As the aerosol former material 5 vaporizes, additional aerosol former material 5 exits the aerosol former tank 16 to replenish the aerosol former material 5 .

The aerosol former tank 16 may be refillable to allow the aerosol former material to be replenished as the tank 16 is depleted.

In some embodiments, vaporizer 4 can be configured as a disposable unit that can be removed and replaced when aerosol former tank 16 is empty. The disposable unit requires an electrical interface to enable the disposable unit to communicate with the control unit 8 . The electrical interface may include electrical contacts that are connected when the disposable unit is inserted into the device 1 in an appropriate orientation. The disposable unit may be held to the device 1 by any suitable connection mechanism, such as a releasable clip, a bayonet connection, or the like.

In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 1 , the device further comprises an aerosol distribution column 19 . The aerosol distribution column 19 stands upright from the base 20 of the receptacle 2 into the rod-shaped consumables receiving space 3 . In use, the rod-shaped consumable can be placed over the aerosol distribution column 19 such that the aerosol distribution column 19 extends within the rod-shaped consumable.

The aerosol distribution column 19 includes an internal bore (not shown) communicating at least one aperture 21 of the aerosol distribution column 19 with the vaporizer 4 . At least one aperture 21 provides an outlet 10 through which aerosol from the vaporizer passes into the consumables 11 accommodated in the consumables accommodating space 3 .

In some embodiments, the outlet 10 includes a plurality of apertures 21 spaced along the aerosol distribution column 19 . The apertures 21 may be arranged in rows in the axial direction of the aerosol distribution column 19 . The rows of apertures 21 are spaced around the circumference of the aerosol distribution column 19 to evenly distribute the aerosol within the consumables 11 accommodated in the consumables receiving space 3 .

As will be explained further below, the lowermost aperture 21 of each row of apertures 21 is spaced from the base 20 of the receptacle 2 to reduce the accumulation of condensate within the receptacle 2. It can be. Each lowermost aperture 21 may be positioned between 10% and 50% way along the length of the aerosol distribution column 19 starting from the base 20 of the receptacle. In one embodiment, each bottom aperture 21 is positioned between 30% of the way along the length of the aerosol distribution column 19 starting from the base 20 of the receptacle.

The consumable further includes a distal end opposite the mouth end 12 . Thus, the distal end is closest to the base 20 of the receptacle when received in the consumable receiving space 3 . The aerosol is preferably introduced into the consumable 11 at a predetermined distance from the distal end of the consumable 11, in some embodiments, from the base 20 of the receptacle 2 to the respective lowermost aperture 21. is achieved by the spacing mentioned above of

During use of the device 1, part of the aerosol will inevitably condense during transit between the vaporizer 4 and the mouth of the user. Condensate formed on the consumable 11 tends to leak from the distal end of the consumable 11 and accumulate in the receptacle 2 . By introducing the condensate into the consumable 11 at a predetermined distance from the distal end of the consumable 11, the condensate that condenses is better absorbed by the consumable 11 and has the potential to leak from the distal end of the consumable 11. this is less

In some embodiments, aerosol distribution column 19 is heated. By heating the aerosol distribution column 19, the total heat content (enthalpy) of the aerosol is increased by the heat transferred from the aerosol distribution column 19 to the aerosol. Increasing the enthalpy of an aerosol reduces the tendency of the aerosol to settle. Therefore, by specifying the spacing of each lowermost aperture 21 from the base 20 of the receptacle 2, the enthalpy of aerosol can be increased before the aerosol passes into the consumables 11 accommodated in the consumables receiving space 3. This can reduce the tendency for aerosols to condense on the consumable 11 .

In some implementations, and as illustrated by FIG. 3 , device 1 further includes a heater 22 configured to heat consumable receiving space 3 . Heater 22 is electrically coupled to battery 7 under the control of control unit 8 . Control unit 8 is configured to direct electrical energy from battery 7 to activate heater 22 in response to an input signal.

In one implementation, an input signal is generated when the second activation button 14 is pressed by the user. In another embodiment, an input signal is generated when a pressure drop is detected at the inlet 9 by the pressure sensor.

In some implementations, heater 22 is an induction heating assembly 22 and includes various components for heating a consumable receiving space through an induction heating process. Induction heating is the process of heating an electrically conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may include an inductive element, eg, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a variable current, such as an alternating current, through the inductive element. The varying current in the inductive element generates a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field penetrates the susceptor properly positioned relative to the inductive element and creates eddy currents inside the susceptor. Since the susceptor has electrical resistance to eddy currents, the susceptor is heated by Joule heating due to the flow of eddy currents with respect to this resistance. In cases where the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat can also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e., the alignment of magnetic dipoles with a changing magnetic field. As a result, it can be created by various orientations of the magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material. In induction heating, compared to heating, for example by conduction, heat is generated inside the susceptor allowing rapid heating. Furthermore, no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, allowing increased freedom in construction and application.

In some implementations, and as illustrated by FIG. 3 , the induction heating assembly includes a susceptor 23 and an inductor coil 24 . The inductor coil 24 is made of an electrically conductive material. In the illustrated implementation, the inductor coil 24 is made of Litz wire/cable wound in a helical fashion around the susceptor 23 . Litz wire includes a plurality of individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. Litz wires are designed to reduce skin effect losses of the conductor. In the illustrated implementation, inductor coil 24 is made of copper litz wire having a rectangular cross section. In other examples, the litz wire may have other shaped cross-sections, such as circular. The inductor coil 24 is configured to generate a variable magnetic field to heat the susceptor 23 .

The susceptor 23 of the illustrated embodiment is cylindrical and hollow and defines a receptacle 3 in which the consumable 11 is received. For example, consumables 11 may be inserted into the susceptor 23 . In the illustrated embodiment, the susceptor 23 is tubular with a circular cross section.

Susceptor 23 may be made of one or more materials. Preferably, the susceptor 23 comprises carbon steel with a coating of nickel or cobalt.

In some implementations, device 1 further includes an insulating member (not shown). The insulating member may be generally tubular and may be disposed between the susceptor 23 and the inductor coil 24 . The insulating member may be made of any insulating material, for example plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is composed of polyether ether ketone (PEEK). The insulating member may help insulate the various components of the device from the heat generated by the susceptor 23 .

In some implementations, the outer surface of the susceptor 23 is spaced from the inner surface of the inductor coil 24 by a distance measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the susceptor 23 . In one specific example, the distance is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

In some implementations, the outer surface of the insulating member is spaced from the inner surface of the inductor coil 24 by a distance measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the susceptor 23 . In one specific example, the distance is about 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance is substantially 0 mm such that the inductor coil 24 touches and contacts the insulating member.

In some implementations, the susceptor 23 has a wall thickness between about 0.025 mm and 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.

In some implementations, the susceptor 23 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

In some implementations, the insulating member has a wall thickness of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

In some embodiments, aerosol distribution column 19 is configured to be induction heated by induction heating assembly 22 . In these embodiments, the aerosol distribution column 19 includes an electrically conductive material that serves as an additional susceptor. The electrically conductive material may be a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt.

4 shows a consumable 11 according to embodiments of the present invention. Consumable 11 includes a rod of aerosol generating material 25 , which in some embodiments includes tobacco material 26 .

Tobacco material 26 may include conventionally cured tobacco that has been cut or shredded in a normal manner. Such tobacco is similar to the tobacco found in cigarettes.

In another embodiment, the tobacco material 26 may be reconstituted to make tobacco paper, which is then shredded or cut into strips. Tobacco paper may be further impregnated with an aerosol former material such as glycerin, glycerol or propylene glycol. Thus, the heat from the aerosol vaporizes the aerosol former material as it passes through the rod of aerosol generating material 25 during inhalation by the user. Advantageously, the aerosol former material will be flavored by the tobacco paper to provide tobacco flavor to the aerosol.

In some embodiments, the tobacco paper comprises longitudinal strips of tobacco paper, each longitudinal strip arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the article. Thus, the resistance of the rod of aerosol generating material 25 to attraction is reduced.

In another embodiment, the tobacco material 26 is reconstituted to make beads of tobacco. The beads of the cigarette may have an average diameter of 0.5 mm to 3 mm. It should be appreciated that for a given volume occupied by the beads of cigarettes, the smaller the average diameter, the greater the collective surface area provided by the beads of cigarettes. Advantageously, the flavor imparted to the aerosol is proportional to the surface area provided by the beads of the tobacco.

In some embodiments, the rod of aerosol generating material 25 includes a first wrapping material 31 . The first wrapping material may be electrically conductive, such as aluminum foil, metallized paper or braided ferrous material. Thus, the first wrapping material can serve as an additional susceptor to the induction heating assembly 22 . The first wrapping material encloses the rod of aerosol generating material 25 such that the edges of the first wrapping material 31 overlap. Overlapping edges of the first lapping material are adhered along a lap seam.

A rod of aerosol generating material 25 is attached to filter section 27 by tipping material 28 . The tipping material 28 surrounds the rod of aerosol generating material 25 and the filter section 27 such that the edges of the tipping material 28 overlap. Overlapping edges of tipping material 28 are glued along the lap seam.

Filter section 27 comprises a cylindrical body of filter material wrapped in a plug wrap 32 . A plug wrap (32) is disposed between the filter material and the tipping material (28).

In some implementations, distal end 33 of consumable 11 further includes a plug 29 . The plug 29 comprises a disk of material extending over the end of the rod of aerosol generating material and attached thereto by a tipping material 28 . In some implementations, plug 29 further includes a plug wrapper 30 disposed between the plug and tipping material 28 .

In some implementations, plug 29 can be impermeable to prevent condensate from leaking from the distal end of consumable 11 during use.

In some embodiments, the plug includes a pilot hole 34 configured to receive the aerosol distribution column when the rod-shaped consumable is inserted into the aerosol providing device. The pilot hole 34 allows the aerosol distribution column to pass through the plug 29 without the need to pierce it. In some implementations, the pilot hole 29 is tapered, with the taper widest at the distal end. In some implementations, the pilot hole does not extend completely through plug 29 .

In this example, the consumable 11 has an outer circumference of about 21 mm (ie, the consumable is of a semi-slim type). Preferably, the consumable 11 has a rod of aerosol generating material 25 having a circumference greater than 19 mm. As the consumable 11 heats up, heat is transferred through the rod of aerosol generating material 25 to volatilize the components of the rod of aerosol generating material 25, and perimeters greater than 19 mm generate an aerosol in this manner. has been found to be particularly effective in Because the consumable 11 must be heated to release the aerosol, improved heating efficiency can be achieved using consumables 11 having perimeters less than about 23 mm. To achieve an improved aerosol through heating, perimeters greater than 19 mm and less than 23 mm are preferred, while maintaining a suitable product length. In some instances, the circumference can be between 20 mm and 22 mm, which has been found to provide a good balance between providing efficient aerosol delivery and enabling efficient heating.

The outer circumference of the filter section 27 is substantially the same as the outer circumference of the plug 29 and the rod of aerosol generating material 25 so that there is a smooth transition between these components. In this example, the outer circumference of filter section 27 is about 20.8 mm.

The tipping material 28 has a basis weight higher than that of the other lapping materials 30, 31, 32 used in the consumable 11, such as 40 gsm to 80 gsm, more preferably 50 gsm to 70 gsm, and In this example, it may have a basis weight of 58 gsm. These ranges of basis weights have been found to result in tipping materials having acceptable tensile strength while being flexible enough to wrap around the consumable 11 and self-adhesive along the overlapping longitudinal edges.

In some examples, tipping material 28 and/or first wrapping material 31 and/or plug wrapper 30 include citrate, such as sodium citrate or potassium citrate. In these examples, materials 28, 31, 30 may have a citrate content of 2% by weight or less, or 1% by weight or less. Reducing the citrate content is thought to help reduce the charring effect that can occur during use.

In some embodiments, the plug 29, the rod of aerosol generating material 25 and the respective wrapping materials 30, 31, 32 of the filter section 27 may contain less than 50 gsm, more preferably about 20 gsm. to 40 gsm. Preferably, the lapping materials 30, 31, 32 have a thickness of 30 μm to 60 μm, more preferably 35 μm to 45 μm. Preferably, the wrapping materials 30, 31, 32 are non-porous, such as having a permeability of less than 100 Coresta units, such as less than 50 Coresta units. However, in other embodiments, the wrapping materials 30, 31, 32 may be porous, such as having a permeability greater than 200 Coresta units. Preferably, the length of filter section 27 is less than about 20 mm. In this example, the length of the filter section 27 is 16 mm.

In some implementations, filter section 27 includes a body formed from filament tow. In this example, the tow used for the body has a denier per filament (d.p.f.) of 8.4 and a total denier of 21,000. Alternatively, for example, the tow may have a denier per filament (d.p.f.) of 9.5 and a total denier of 12,000. In this example, the tow includes plasticized cellulose acetate tow. Plasticizers used in tow comprise about 7% by weight of the tow. In this example, the plasticizer is triacetin. In other examples, other materials may be used to form the body. For example, the body of the filter section 27, rather than the tow, may be formed of paper in a manner similar to paper filters known to be used in, for example, cigarettes. Alternatively, the body may be formed from tows other than cellulose acetate, such as polylactic acid (PLA), other materials described herein for filament tow, or similar materials. The tow is preferably formed from cellulose acetate. The tow, whether formed of cellulose acetate or other materials, preferably has a d.p.f. of at least 5, more preferably at least 6, even more preferably at least 7. This denier per filament value provides a tow with relatively coarse, thick fibers with low surface area, which has a lower d.p.f. results in a lower pressure drop across the filter section (6) than the tows with values. Preferably, to achieve a sufficiently uniform body, the tow has a denier per filament of 12 d.p.f. or less, preferably 11 d.p.f. or less, still more preferably 10 d.p.f or less.

The total denier of the tow forming the body of filter section 27 is preferably at most 30,000, more preferably at most 28,000, even more preferably at most 25,000. These total denier values provide a tow that occupies a reduced percentage of the cross-sectional area of the filter section 27, which results in a lower pressure drop across the filter section 27 than tows with higher total denier values. For adequate rigidity of the filter section 27, the tow preferably has a total denier of at least 8,000, more preferably at least 10,000. Preferably, the denier per filament is 5 to 12, and the total denier is 10,000 to 25,000. More preferably, the denier per filament is 6 to 10, and the total denier is 11,000 to 22,000. Preferably the cross-sectional shape of the filament of the tow is 'Y' shaped, although other shapes may be used, such as 'X' shaped filaments in other embodiments, and the same d.p.f. and total denier values.

The cross-section of the tow filaments may have an isperimetric ratio L2/A of 25 or less, 20 or less, or 15 or less, where L is the length of the cross-sectional perimeter and A is the cross-sectional area. These tow filaments have a relatively low surface area for a given denier value per filament, which improves the delivery of the aerosol to the consumer. In some examples, the body may include an adsorbent material (eg, charcoal) dispersed within the tow.

In some examples, the body of filter section 27 may include a capsule. The capsule may include a breakable capsule, such as a capsule having a hard and brittle shell surrounding a liquid payload. In some instances, a single capsule is used. The capsule is completely embedded within the body of the filter section (27). In other words, the capsule is completely surrounded by the material forming the body. In other examples, a plurality of breakable capsules may be disposed within the body of filter section 27, for example two, three or more breakable capsules may be disposed. The length of the body of filter section 27 may be increased to accommodate the number of capsules required. In instances where a plurality of capsules are used, the individual capsules may be identical to each other or may differ from each other in terms of size and/or capsule payload. In other examples, bodies of multiple materials may be provided, each body holding one or more capsules.

The capsule has a core-shell structure. In other words, the capsule comprises a shell encapsulating a liquid formulation, such as a flavorant or other agent, which may be any of the flavorants or aerosol modifiers described herein. The shell of the capsule can be ruptured by the user to release the flavor or other agent into the body of the filter section 27 . The filter section plug wrap 32 may include a barrier coating that renders the plug wrap 32 substantially impervious to the liquid payload of the capsule. Alternatively or additionally, plug wrap 32 may include a barrier coating that renders plug wrap 32 substantially impervious to the liquid payload of the capsule.

In some instances, the capsule is spherical and has a diameter of about 3 mm. In other examples, other shapes and sizes of capsules may be used. The total weight of the capsule may range from about 10 mg to about 50 mg.

For a given tow specification (eg, 8.4Y21000), it is known to produce a tow capability curve representing the pressure drop through the rod length formed using the tow for each of the tow weight ranges. Parameters such as rod length and girth, wrapper thickness and tow plasticizer level are specified, and these are combined with tow specifications to create a tow capacity curve, which is the minimum and maximum weights achievable using a standard filter rod forming machine. represents an indication of the pressure drop that will be provided by different tow weights between These tow capacity curves can be calculated, for example, using software provided by tow suppliers. It has been found to be particularly advantageous to use a body for filter section 27 comprising a filament tow, wherein the filament tow is between about 10% and about 10% of the range between the minimum and maximum weights of the tow capacity curve generated for the filament tow. It comprises a filament tow having a weight per mm length of the body, which is about 30%. This is an acceptable balance between providing sufficient tow weight to avoid shrinkage after the body is formed, and for capsules of the sizes described herein while also providing an acceptable pressure drop, also assisting with capsule placement within the tow. can provide.

In some implementations, filter section 27 may further include a hollow tubular element extending from mouth end 12 and attached to the filter section by plug wrap 32 . The hollow tubular element may advantageously have a length greater than about 10 mm, such as between about 10 mm and about 30 mm or between about 12 mm and about 25 mm. The consumer's lips, when drawing an aerosol through the consumable 11, in some cases are likely to extend up to about 12 mm from the mouth end 12 of the consumable 11, thus at least 10 mm or at least 12 mm. It has been found that a hollow tubular element having a length of ? means that most of the consumer's lips surround this element.

In some implementations, a method of manufacturing consumable 11 includes forming a section of aerosol generating material 25; forming a section of filter material (27); forming a plug 29 comprising a pilot hole 34; combining a section of aerosol generating material (25) with a section of filter material (27), which section of filter material (27) forms a mouth end (12) of a consumable (11); and a mouth end (12). ) attaching a plug (29) to the opposite, distal end (33) of the section of aerosol generating material (25).

Claims (29)

A non-flammable aerosol providing device comprising:
A receptacle defining a rod-shaped consumables accommodating space, and
a vaporizer for generating an aerosol from an aerosol precursor material, wherein the vaporizer, in use, allows the aerosol to pass from the vaporizer and into a rod-shaped consumable accommodated in a rod-shaped consumable receiving space; A non-flammable aerosol providing device communicating with a rod-shaped consumables accommodation space. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising an aerosol distribution column upstanding from the base of the receptacle and into the rod-shaped consumable receiving space, such that, in use, the rod-shaped consumable is configured such that the aerosol distribution column is the rod-shaped consumable. disposed above the aerosol distribution column so as to extend within a consumable of; Wherein the aerosol distribution column is configured to introduce aerosol directly into rod-shaped consumables accommodated in the rod-shaped consumables receiving space. 3. The method of claim 2, wherein an internal bore of the aerosol distribution column communicates the vaporizer with an aperture in the column such that aerosol can pass from the vaporizer through the aperture into a rod-shaped consumable accommodated in a rod-shaped consumable receiving space. A non-flammable aerosol providing device. 4. The device of claim 3, wherein the internal bore communicates with a plurality of apertures spaced along the length of the aerosol distribution column. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the lowermost aperture of the plurality of apertures is positioned between 10% and 50% of the way along the length of the aerosol distribution column, measured from the base of the receptacle. 6. The non-flammable aerosol providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a heater configured to heat the rod-shaped consumable receiving space. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the heater comprises an inductor coil extending around the receptacle. 8. The device of claim 7, wherein the receptacle comprises a cylindrical wall, the cylindrical wall being configured to be inductively heated by an inductor coil. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the aerosol distribution column is configured to be inductively heated by an inductor coil. A non-flammable aerosol delivery system comprising:
A non-flammable aerosol providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and
A non-flammable aerosol-dispensing system comprising a rod-shaped consumable for insertion into a heater of the non-flammable aerosol-dispensing device. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the rod shaped consumable comprises an aerosol generating material. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises tobacco material. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco granules. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the tobacco granules comprise cut tobacco. 14. The system of claim 13, wherein the tobacco granules comprise beads of tobacco. 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the tobacco material comprises tobacco paper. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the tobacco paper comprises longitudinal strips of tobacco paper, each longitudinal strip arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rod-shaped consumable. 18. The system of any of claims 11-17, wherein the aerosol generating material further comprises an aerosol-former material. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the aerosol former material comprises at least one of glycerin, glycerol or propylene glycol. 20. The system of any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the rod shaped consumable further comprises a filter section forming a mouth end. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the aerosol generating material and filter section are joined by at least one wrapping material. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein at least one wrapping material comprises a susceptor. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the susceptor comprises aluminum foil. 23. The system of claim 22, wherein the susceptor comprises a braided material. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein the braid material comprises a ferrous material. 26. The system of any of claims 20-25, wherein the rod consumable further comprises a plug disposed at the distal end of the rod shaped consumable opposite the mouth end. 27. The system according to claim 26, wherein the plug comprises a pilot hole configured to receive the aerosol distribution column when the rod shaped consumable is inserted into the aerosol providing device. As a consumable for use with a non-flammable aerosol providing device,
a section of aerosol generating material;
a section of filter material forming the mouth end of the consumable; and
a plug extending across the distal end of the aerosol generating material, opposite the mouth end;
wherein the plug includes a pilot hole extending at least partially through the plug. A method of manufacturing a consumable for use in a non-flammable aerosol-providing device, the method comprising:
forming a section of aerosol generating material;
forming a section of filter material;
forming a plug including a pilot hole;
combining the section of aerosol generating material with the section of filter material, the section of filter material forming the mouth end of the consumable; and
attaching the plug to the distal end of the section of aerosol generating material opposite the mouth end.

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